James Thomas Klus

We are heartbroken to announce that James passed away in the early morning hours of January 5, 2026. His long courageous battle with diabetes, congestive heart failure and kidney disease has come to an end.

James was born on January 23, 1960 in Port Alberni and lived his entire life here. He loved Port Alberni and was a proud Kiwanis member for over 25 years, his way of giving back to the community. Volunteering in the Beer Gardens at the Salmon Festival was a yearly highlight for him. He was an avid Bulldogs fan and could be seen at all their games. He loved to go camping especially to Toquart Bay and Secret Beach. James also liked to travel, his adventures took him to Hawaii, St. Louis, Mexico, Disneyland to name a few. He enjoyed fishing down the canal with his Dad, loved going moose hunting which earned him the nickname of "Moose", curling and daily coffee at 1:00 pm at McDonald's and a glass of good scotch once in awhile. He was a very generous person and would share moose pepperoni and his delicious smoked salmon with family, friends and even strangers. He was employed at APD from 1978 to 2020 when he was forced to retire due to his health.

He is survived by his wife Marie, son Kyle and daughter-in-law Leanne and daughter Kandice. His three beautiful grandchildren Taylor, Emmy and Violet who he loved with all his heart. His brother Ken and nephew Chase. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, close friends especially his daily coffee buddy Don MacGowen, his long time hunting partner Don LaRochelle and his beloved cat Bert.

James was predeceased by his parents, Ed (January 23, 2016), Anne (April 24, 2023) and brother Len (April 17, 2025). His father and mother-in-law Louie and Alice Papp.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Hermann Nell and Theresa and Jen for the amazing, compassionate care you provided to James. James felt so blessed to have such a wonderful caring doctor. A special thank you to all the nurses at the Port Alberni Dialysis Unit especially Leanne, Tina and Hailey. As hard as dialysis was, he enjoyed the time he spent with all of you and talked so fondly of everyone. Thank you to the amazing first responders and ambulance attendants for everything that you did and for the support you gave to us. Thank you to Derek from Chapel of Memories for your professionalism, guidance and compassion, we appreciate everything that you have done and continue to do for us.

In keeping with James wishes, cremation has taken place. He requested that his ashes be spread where he went moose hunting. James would love it if in his memory you raised a glass of scotch and toasted him.

Flowers are gratefully declined by the family. If so desired donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Mid Island Kidney Foundation would be appreciated.

A celebration of life is being planned for early summer and will be announced at a later date.

Happy Hunting James, Dad and Papa! We Love You! We Miss You! Rock On!